FRISCO, Texas — Dak Prescott’s injured hamstring is partially torn from the bone and surgery is possible for the Dallas Cowboys’ star quarterback, a person with knowledge of the situation said Thursday.

The injury, known as a partial avulsion, is likely to result in an absence longer than the four-game minimum that would be required by putting Prescott on the bench.

Among the options being considered is potentially season-ending surgery, the person told The Associated Press. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the team has not publicly disclosed details about Prescott’s injury. NFL Network was the first to report the extent of Prescott’s injury.

In training camp two years ago, former Cowboys left tackle Tyron Smith suffered what’s called a complete avulsion, a complete tear of the hamstring from the bone that requires surgery, and missed 13 games.

Prescott was injured in the second half of the game Cowboys 27-21 loss to Atlanta Sunday. Dallas (3-5) is preparing for Cooper Rush to start several games, starting Sunday at home against NFC East rival Philadelphia.

The Rush went 4-1 two years ago after Prescott broke his throwing thumb in a season-opening loss. He also won a game in 2021 when Prescott was out with a strained calf.

The Cowboys have made the playoffs three straight years with a 12-5 record, but have already tied the loss total and are three games behind Washington and the Eagles in the NFC East loss column.

If Prescott doesn’t return, it will be the second time in five years the 2016 AP Offensive Rookie of the Year has been sidelined for most of the season. Broke an ankle in Week 5 of the 2020 season and missed 11 games.

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